As travelers search for unique experiences far removed from the crowded tourist hotspots, a compelling trend is emerging: noctourism. This innovative travel philosophy embraces the beauty of nighttime, inviting adventurers to explore the cosmos and connect with nature in extraordinary ways. Among those at the forefront of this movement is Rebecca Douglas, a seasoned photographer dedicated to capturing the ethereal beauty of the aurora borealis—better known as the Northern Lights. With 29 trips to Iceland under her belt and a 30th already planned, Douglas exemplifies the fervor with which individuals are now approaching nocturnal adventures.
Her journey into the realm of nighttime photography began in 2010, driven by the captivating dance of colors that paint the Arctic skies in colors ranging from vibrant greens to deep purples. This phenomenon occurs due to interactions between charged particles from the sun and Earth’s atmosphere, creating a stunning light show that continues to mystify and attract onlookers. With a peak solar cycle on the horizon, Douglas and many others are excited about the prospect of a more vivid display of lights in the coming years.
As the trend gains traction, evidence of heightened interest in noctourism is everywhere. Booking.com recently dubbed it one of the top travel trends for 2025, emphasizing the allure of seeking out experiences that unfold under the starry night sky. A global survey revealed that nearly two-thirds of travelers are considering destinations known for darker skies, underscoring a collective yearning for activities such as stargazing, witnessing celestial events, and tracking constellations.
This growing fascination with the night sky is not limited to merely observing celestial wonders; it also encompasses a range of experiences occurring after sundown. From city walking tours cast in moonlight to gastronomic delights such as nighttime truffle hunting in Italy, the options are as diverse as they are enchanting. Travel providers like Wayfairer Travel have reported a 25% increase in noctourism requests this past year, emphasizing the rising appeal of experiences like observing the Northern Lights in Norway and midnight diving among the vibrant coral reefs of Australia.
Chasing Celestial Events: A New Frontier
The allure of celestial events has sparked a new desire among travelers. Eclipse chasing is emerging as a “bucket list” experience, as people venture to expansive, remote locations to catch a glimpse of these extraordinary phenomena. The High Arctic of Greenland is touted as the next frontier for such seekers, drawing travelers away from light-polluted urban areas into pristine landscapes where stargazing becomes an immersive experience.
As hotels across the globe begin offering dedicated stargazing packages, the prospect of experiencing magical nights unfolds right at our doorstep. Whether traveling to the lush beaches of Hawaii or the snow-capped Alps of Austria, there is increasing access to activities that allow travelers to engage with the universe after dark.
Rebecca Douglas approaches her nocturnal adventures with meticulous planning. Unlike many travelers who opt for guided hotel packages, she prefers to organize her own trips. This independence gives her the freedom to choose accommodations that are remote and free from the glow of streetlights—essential for capturing stellar photographs of the Northern Lights.
In her pursuit of the perfect shot, Douglas spends significant time analyzing maps and considering options that allow her to mitigate unwanted light pollution. She is acutely aware that even the most subtle sources of light can detract from the beauty of nightscape photography. Moreover, she strategically plans her trips around the phases of the moon, aiming for visits close to the new moon when the sky is darkest—offering not only the most breathtaking Aurora displays but also a stunning panorama of the Milky Way.
Douglas’s passion for the night sky extends beyond merely photographing the aurora; she also teaches others the intricacies of capturing these fleeting moments through an online course. Her expertise doesn’t end there; she finds joy in documenting noctilucent clouds and polar stratospheric clouds, employing her skills to bring light to the enchanting wonders of the night.
Despite the challenges of nighttime photography, including freezing temperatures and extended hours outdoors, Douglas finds it all worthwhile. Her approach to art emphasizes hard work and dedication, but it is her love for these experiences that drives her to brave the cold in pursuit of beauty. For her, every snap of the shutter while enveloped in the serene stillness of night serves as a reminder of the privilege of being able to share in the wonders of our universe.
Through her journeys, Rebecca Douglas captures not just images but the essence of nocturnal wonder—a testament to the allure of night travel. As the world begins to awaken to the wonders of the night, the opportunities for exploration will undoubtedly continue to grow, transforming the travel landscape well into the future.